This paper presents a critical review of empirical and theoretical treatments of group reaction to attitudinal deviancy. Inspired by Festinger's (1950) ideas on resolution of attitudinal discrepancies in groups, Schachter (1951) conducted an experiment that has greatly influenced subsequent research and theory concerning reaction to attitudinal deviancy. Although Schachter's findings on sociometric rejection of the deviate have been frequently replicated, his data on communication to the deviate are partially inconsistent with theory and other research. Additional evidence is presented which suggests that individuals who deviate in nonattitudinal spheres are also subject to negative group sanction. Rejection may be employed against persons who impede group goals, transgress group norms, or differ in personality from other group members. Finally, data are presented which indicate that deviates are not always rejected; rather, deviation in some settings and by some individuals may be tolerated or even encouraged. (Author)